Collaborate on Journals in Zinnia (Mac, iPad, iPhone)

Updated

Zinnia doesn’t currently support real-time collaboration across different iCloud accounts. To co-edit at the same time, all devices must be signed in to the same Apple ID with iCloud Sync enabled. Otherwise, you can share a copy of your journal (.zinniajournal or PDF) for sequential editing or review.

What You’ll Need

  • Zinnia installed on all devices

  • The same Apple ID signed in on each device (for synchronous editing)

  • iCloud Drive enabled in device settings

  • iCloud Syncing enabled in Zinnia

  • Internet connection for syncing and sharing

  • iPadOS 15.5 / macOS 12.4 or later

1. Enable Same-Account Co-Editing

  • Sign in to the same Apple ID on all devices

  • On your device: Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Drive = ON; Zinnia = ON

  • In Zinnia: Journals screen > more options icon (…) > iCloud Syncing = ON

  • Open the journal on one device and begin editing

  • Allow a few moments for iCloud to sync changes before opening it on another device

  • Avoid editing the same page on multiple devices at once

2. Share a Journal Without Simultaneous Editing

  • Share a .zinniajournal file (Zinnia only) or export as a PDF

  • The recipient opens the file on their device and can review or make edits

    *note, changes will need to be made manually if you wish to keep the edits consistent

3. Request Collaboration as a Feature

Tips and Notes

  • Sharing the same Apple ID allows access to other iCloud data—only do this with trusted collaborators

  • Let iCloud fully sync before switching devices or continuing edits (this may take a few moments)

  • Use PDF export for feedback workflows that don’t require live editing

  • .zinniajournal files open only in Zinnia

FAQ

Q: Does Zinnia support real-time collaboration across different accounts?
A: Not at this time. All devices must use the same Apple ID with iCloud Sync enabled.

Q: How do I request collaboration features?
A: Submit a feature request with your idea.

Q: Why don't edits on one device don’t appear on another?
A: Make sure iCloud Drive and Zinnia toggles are ON (device and app), both devices are online, and give iCloud time to sync. Force-quit and reopen Zinnia if needed.

Q: We use different Apple IDs—can we still co-edit live?
A: Not currently. Share a .zinniajournal or PDF and work sequentially.

Q: Turning on iCloud Syncing fails
A: Confirm device-level iCloud Drive is ON, restart the device, then re-enable in Zinnia.

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